One year after breaking ground, 32 homes are up at Siena Place in South Philadelphia’s Packer Park neighborhood. Just 281 more to go.

The new townhome community, just a 15-minute drive from Center City, is slowly being built in three phases with a total of 313 units planned. It’s set on a 30-acre former navy barracks site in an area not known for luxury developments. But Siena Place is doing its best to change that: The homes start at a roomy 2,600 square feet and feature three or four bedrooms, 9-foot first-floor ceilings and eat-in kitchens with stainless steel appliances. Prices for three-bedroom units range from $389,900 to $472,000.

Buyers are attracted to the suburban feel, says sales manager John Kriza. “It’s off the beaten path and there’s a lot of green space,” he says.

Homeowner Denise Keen agrees. She and her husband had been living in Center City when they decided to move back to their native South Philly.

“Because of [it’s location] and the way the homes are set up, you don’t have the feeling of congestion,” says Keen. “In back of us is a park — you look out and it feels like the suburbs.”

Adding to the suburban appeal, each home has a one- or two-car garage. (The 68 bus is nearby for those who prefer SEPTA.)

The Keens live in a Camilla, one of three home designs available. It’s the most decadent, with 25-foot ceilings in the living room and walk-in closets. “We looked at a lot of different options,” Keen says. “We really liked the size of the homes — they give you a lot for your money.”